cutting out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cutting out" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used as a phrasal verb meaning to discontinue or cease doing something. For example, "I've decided to start cutting out sugar from my diet".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Cutting out night feedings can regulate hormones more effectively than cutting out feedings at any other time of the day.

WikiHow

The phone's cutting out.

Independent

"They're cutting out.

The New Yorker

Try cutting out words instead.

University of California, Berkeley

You're cutting out unwanted frequencies.

The New York Times - Tech

My memory keeps cutting out.

The Guardian

Except it keeps cutting out.

The Guardian - Music

What about cutting out these middlemen too?

The Guardian

That is about cutting out abuse.

The Guardian

"But the Wi-Fi kept cutting out.

The New Yorker

We're cutting out the middle man.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing dietary changes, be specific about what you are "cutting out" to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "I'm cutting out unhealthy foods", specify "I'm cutting out sugary drinks and processed snacks".

Common error

Avoid using "cutting out" interchangeably with phrases like "reducing" if you are not completely eliminating something. "Cutting out" implies complete removal, while "reducing" suggests a decrease in quantity or frequency.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "cutting out" primarily functions as a verb expressing the action of removing, eliminating, or discontinuing something. As shown by Ludwig, it's versatile, applicable in various contexts from health to business. Ludwig AI highlights its use in describing dietary changes or eliminating steps in a process.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

33%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cutting out" is a versatile phrasal verb meaning to eliminate or discontinue something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news, media and wiki contexts. While it's generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "eliminating" or "excluding" may be preferred in academic or professional settings. To use it effectively, specify what you are "cutting out" to avoid ambiguity and remember that it implies complete removal, unlike "reducing". With its high frequency and clear meaning, "cutting out" remains a valuable part of everyday English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

eliminating

Focuses on the complete removal or eradication of something, similar to removing something entirely from consideration or use.

removing

Refers to taking something away, often physically, but can also apply to abstract concepts like removing a step in a process.

excluding

Highlights the act of preventing something or someone from being included.

omitting

Implies intentionally leaving something out, often for brevity or relevance.

ceasing

Emphasizes the act of stopping or discontinuing something.

stopping

A more direct synonym for ceasing, indicating the termination of an action or process.

abstaining from

Suggests refraining from something, often related to habits or desires.

refraining from

Similar to abstaining, but may carry a slightly more formal tone.

withdrawing from

Indicates a removal of oneself or something associated with oneself from an activity or situation.

taking away

Focuses on the act of removing or subtracting something from a set or situation.

FAQs

How can I use "cutting out" in a sentence about health?

You can use "cutting out" to describe eliminating something from your diet, such as, "I am "cutting out sugary drinks" to improve my health".

What is a more formal way to say "cutting out"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "eliminating", "removing", or "ceasing". For instance, "The company is "eliminating unnecessary expenses"".

Is "cutting out" appropriate for academic writing?

While "cutting out" is generally understood, it may be too informal for academic writing. Opt for terms like "excluding" or "omitting" for a more suitable tone such as, "The study is "excluding participants with preexisting conditions"".

What's the difference between "cutting out" and "reducing"?

"Cutting out" implies complete elimination, whereas "reducing" means decreasing the quantity or frequency. For example, "I am "cutting out coffee"" means you're stopping drinking coffee altogether, while "I am reducing my coffee intake" means you're drinking less coffee than before.